Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pina Colada Lush is a tropical, creamy, no-bake dessert that layers coconut, pineapple, and a light whipped topping over a buttery cookie crust. Inspired by the classic cocktail, this indulgent yet refreshing treat is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re craving something sweet and sunny without turning on the oven.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
graham cracker crumbs or crushed vegan cookiesmelted vegan butter
For the filling and layers:
vegan cream cheese or whipped coconut creampowdered sugarvanilla extractcrushed pineapple (drained)instant vanilla or coconut pudding mixdairy-free milk (cold)coconut whipped toppingshredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)maraschino cherries and pineapple wedges for garnish (optional)
directions
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted vegan butter until evenly combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill while you prepare the layers.
In a mixing bowl, beat vegan cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Fold in crushed pineapple and spread this mixture over the chilled crust.
In another bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold dairy-free milk until thickened.
Spread the pudding over the pineapple layer.
Top with a generous layer of coconut whipped topping.
Sprinkle with shredded coconut and garnish with cherries or pineapple wedges if desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 12.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 4 hoursTotal time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use a cookie crust made from vanilla wafers or shortbread for a different base.
Swap pineapple for mango or a tropical fruit blend.
Add a splash of rum extract for a more authentic pina colada flavor.
Top with toasted coconut for extra texture and flavor.
storage/reheating
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best served chilled.No reheating required—not suitable for freezing as the layers may separate.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for making the night before serving so the layers can set properly.
What can I use instead of pudding mix?
A homemade coconut pastry cream or thick coconut yogurt can work as a substitute.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers for the crust to make it gluten-free.
Can I make it nut-free?
Yes, just ensure all products (especially the whipped topping and crust) are nut-free.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, just chop it finely and be sure to drain any excess juice to avoid a watery layer.
Conclusion
Pina Colada Lush is a cool, creamy, tropical dream layered into one decadent dessert. With pineapple, coconut, and a buttery base, it captures the essence of a beachside cocktail in a spoonful. Easy to make and even easier to love, this no-bake treat is sure to brighten up any table.
PrintPina Colada Lush
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This no-bake Pina Colada Lush dessert is a tropical, creamy layered treat featuring coconut pudding, crushed pineapple, and a golden cookie crust. It’s the perfect chilled dessert for warm days or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed golden Oreos or graham crackers
- 1/3 cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 (8 oz) tub vegan whipped topping
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant coconut pudding mix (vegan if available)
- 1 cup cold plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 tsp rum extract (optional, for pina colada flavor)
- Maraschino cherries and pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos or graham crackers with melted vegan butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch pan to form the crust. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut pudding mix and cold plant-based milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Fold in the vegan whipped topping, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut (if using), and rum extract (if using).
- Spread the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until set.
- Before serving, top with extra whipped topping, maraschino cherries, and pineapple wedges for garnish.
Notes
- Be sure to use a vegan-friendly pudding mix or substitute with coconut cream thickened with cornstarch.
- For a firmer texture, freeze for 30 minutes before serving.
- You can also use a 9×13 inch pan for thinner layers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *